I remember my first BIG screw up on my journey of “becoming”. It resonates with me frequently because it was a learning opportunity, but I didn’t see it that way. I became the president of my sorority and it was my first chance to really shine— or so I thought. It turns out it was another form of politics and I didn’t know that I had walked right into the trap.
I had been groomed for the part. My predecessor had strategically scouted me out, took me under her wing, showed me the ropes, gave me advice and turned me into a miniature version of herself. I was so worried about people liking me and fitting in that I completely lost who I was and how I wanted to lead. This happened before I even got started.
Isn’t it crazy how just one choice or decision can change your entire path? On the other hand, I believe that when you are destined or something you will get there. You may take an alternate route (which is okay), but ultimately you will end up living your purpose. That’s not to say that inner work isn’t necessary. It absolutely must occur!
I’ve failed attempts at many things since the above story actually happened. I have failed starting a business, breastfeeding, maintaining healthy family relationahips, jobs, cooking meals, tests, and a very long list of additional things.
However, if I had stopped or given up in any of those situations I wouldn’t be enjoying my life. I wouldn’t be comfortable with who I am. I certainly wouldn’t have two beautiful children. To get to this moment I’ve had to try so many things and fail to find what works. Trial and error has been a notion that has given me many small successes. These successes are leading me to my vision being fulfilled.
About five years ago I wanted to give up. I wanted, so badly, to just skip town, start over, and reinvent myself. I had started learning Spanish and doing phone interviews for jobs. I was itching to run as far away as I possibly could. I was headed to Miami and there just wasn’t anything that was going to stop me.
Turns out— the universe had much different plans. Shortly after trying to escape what I called my life I ran into this man that I have not been separated from since 2014. I had given up on love and determined it was not for me. Oops! Wrong again! Our son was born that same year.
Now, I see how important it was for me to give up the idea of running away. My failures kept me in a place that made me believe I was something I wasn’t. They crippled me with fear and essentially made me think I’d never reach my goals. My failures made me perceive that is NEVER win.
Truth is, they were a part of the big picture. If I would not have experienced them I wouldn’t be where I am today. I would not have learned how to change, grow, try something different, or go for what I wanted. My failures are actually the reason I am #winning today. Never wish your failures to not happen. You need them. They are a part of you, your journey and the plan.
—Liv
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